 | Saline nose drops |
| Making nose drops |
| How to use nose drops |
SALINE NOSE DROPS
1. Saline nose drops are used to clean your baby’s nose, especially when he has a cold or congestion (stuffy nose).
2. Homemade saline (salt water) nose drops are recommended because other kinds of over-the-counter nose drops may contain drugs that are harmful to your baby.
MAKING NOSE DROPS
1. Saline nose drops can be made as follows. You will need to buy a nose dropper at the pharmacy (drug store).
| Add ˝ teaspoon of table salt to 8 ounces of warm tap water |
| Salt will dissolve in the warm water |
| Allow nose drops to cool before using. |
2. Homemade saline nose drops should be made new everyday.
3. Store the saline nose drops in a clean bottle and use a clean dropper.
4. Wash nose dropper in hot soapy water, rinse with hot water.
HOW TO USE NOSE DROPS
1. Place 3-4 drops in one side of your baby’s nose while the head is tilted slightly back. Suction with the bulb syringe. [see Section 2—Bulb Syringe—to see how to use a bulb syringe]
|
Repeat on the other side of your baby’s nose |
| Your baby may cough, sneeze and/or swallow part of the solution (nose drops). This is normal. |
2. Saline nose drops can be used whenever needed. If your baby has a cold or nasal congestion that makes feeding difficult, use the nose drops before feedings.
Reviewed/Revised:
12/00, 3/01, 2/03, 10/05, 8/07
